Epithalon

Epithalon (also spelled Epitalon) is a synthetic tetrapeptide, meaning it is composed of four amino acids (Alanine, Glutamic Acid, Aspartic Acid, and Glycine). It was developed as the synthetic counterpart to Epithalamin, a polypeptide extract isolated from the pineal gland of animals.

The primary mechanism of action attributed to Epithalon in research is the upregulation of the enzyme telomerase. Telomerase is responsible for adding repetitive nucleotide sequences to the ends of chromosomes, known as telomeres. The progressive shortening of telomeres during cell division is considered a key biomarker of cellular aging.

In addition to its investigated effects on telomerase, Epithalon is reported to influence the neuroendocrine system, particularly through its interaction with the pineal gland. This interaction is suggested to help normalize melatonin production and regulate circadian rhythms. The compound was developed in Russia, and the majority of existing research consists of animal studies and some human observations from Russian institutions.